Xbox 720 Announcement May 21: 5 Fast Facts You Need to Know

According to new reports, Microsoft will be unveiling their new Xbox video game console, rumored to be called the Xbox 720, on May 21st. Here’s what you need to know.

1. Microsoft Sent Out Invites TodayThe invite, seen above, is cryptic but is clearly about the Xbox video game console. Microsoft has a ton of projects, from mobile development, to tablets and personal computers, so by specifying what this event is about gives us a great preview to what we can expect.

2. Don Mattrick is Mentioned By Name
Who is Don Mattrick? Mattrick is Microsoft’s President of the Interactive Entertainment Business, and has overseen the development of dozens of video game projects from Microsoft, including the Xbox 720 and the Kinect. Mattrick is another sign that this event will be about a future Xbox device.

3. The Event Will Be in WashingtonThe event is scheduled for 10:00 a.m. PST on May 21, 2013, less than a month away. Similar to other companies, Microsoft will hold the event near its headquarters in Redmond, Washington.

4. There’s Been a lot of Controversy About the Xbox 720’s “Always-On” Feature
There are rumors that the Xbox 720 will be forced to always be connected to the Internet, or the console won’t work. When this detail leaked online, fans were absolutely livid over the idea. A Microsoft employee — who was later let go — argued on Twitter that being “always-on” and constantly connected to the Internet isn’t a big deal — and he has a point. Do you use an electronic device that isn’t connected to the Internet (maybe besides a TV)? I don’t think I do.

5. The Xbox 720 Will Be Packed With FeaturesAs we previously wrote, the Xbox 720 will have some outstanding features, even if it has an “always-on” Internet connection. According to news reports, the Xbox 720 will have an advanced Kinect, capable of recognizing 6 people and will be able to run multiple apps/games at the same time. Quite the high-powered video game console.